Confession tells the truth about sin before God. Repentance is the turning toward him that includes a changed judgment about sin and a changed direction of life. Faith relies on Jesus Christ for salvation. These belong together: God calls people into life with his Son, and those who follow him continue to need his mercy and correction. The passages below explain that response without making either the first turning or the continuing obedience a purchase of God’s grace.
Come to God with hope in his mercy
God’s call to return gives you a reason to come. Isaiah 55:1–3 invites the thirsty and those without money to receive what satisfies, listen to the LORD, and live. Within this promise of covenant renewal, Isaiah 55:6–9 calls the wicked to forsake their ways and thoughts and return to the God who abundantly pardons. His ways and thoughts exceed theirs; they are to trust his promise of mercy as they abandon their own sinful course. Begin by calling on him and receiving his judgment about what needs to change.
Jesus welcomes people who need that mercy. In Luke 5:27–32, he calls Levi from his tax booth to follow him, then eats with tax collectors and others at Levi’s feast. When the scribes and Pharisees object, Jesus compares his work to a physician’s care: sick people need the physician. He explains that he has come to call sinners to repentance. Your recognition of sin is a reason to answer his call. Come ready both to receive his help and to follow him.
Luke 15:1–10 explains the joy behind this welcome. Jesus is answering criticism that he receives sinners and eats with them. A shepherd finds his lost sheep, and a woman finds her lost coin; each invites others to rejoice. Jesus connects that joy with a sinner’s repentance. The recovery of someone who was lost matters to God. Repentance is therefore approached with hope in his concern, as well as seriousness about the wrong from which you are turning.
In the following parable, the younger son wastes his inheritance and comes to hunger. He decides to return, acknowledge his sin, and ask for the place of a hired servant. While he is still far away, his father sees him, runs to him, and embraces him; the son confesses, and the father orders the robe, ring, shoes, and feast that mark his welcome (Luke 15:11–24). The story presents a return met by compassion. Its first audience also needs the ending: the angry elder son is invited to rejoice over his brother’s recovery (Luke 15:25–32). Bring your need honestly to God and receive his welcome without treating mercy as something you or another sinner must become worthy enough to buy.
Answer that invitation now. In Luke 13:1–5, Jesus refuses the suggestion that people killed by Pilate or by a falling tower were greater sinners than everyone else. He turns his hearers toward their own need to repent. The fig-tree parable that follows gives a further season of care to a fruitless tree, while retaining the prospect of judgment (Luke 13:6–9). God’s patience gives room for a faithful response. Use that room to turn to him.
Acknowledge your sin and ask God to renew you
Tell God the truth about the particular wrong you recognize. Psalm 32:1–5 begins by celebrating forgiven sin, then recalls the burden of keeping silent. The turning point is the psalmist’s acknowledgment of his sin to the LORD, followed by forgiveness. The concealment ends because he brings the wrong into the open before God. As you pray, name what you have done and accept responsibility for it. The psalm then calls for prayer, trust, and a willingness to be instructed (Psalm 32:6–11); confession opens into a teachable life.
David’s encounter with Nathan shows what accepting responsibility can involve. In 2 Samuel 12:1–6, Nathan tells of a rich man who takes a poor man’s treasured lamb, although he has flocks of his own. David condemns the act. Nathan then identifies David as the guilty man and names his taking Uriah’s wife and arranging Uriah’s death (2 Samuel 12:7–12). David’s answer in 2 Samuel 12:13 is, “I have sinned against the LORD.” He allows God’s word to expose his own conduct rather than keeping judgment directed at someone else.
Psalm 51:1–6 likewise grounds confession in God’s lovingkindness and tender mercies. The psalmist acknowledges transgression, accepts God’s just judgment, and asks for truth within. The words “Against thee, thee only, have I sinned” in Psalm 51:4 give sin its ultimate seriousness as an offence against God. They do not erase the people harmed: the same prayer asks deliverance from bloodguiltiness in Psalm 51:14, and Nathan expressly names the wrong done to Uriah. Confess to God with an honest regard for the human harm your actions have caused.
Ask for change within as well as pardon. Psalm 51:7–12 seeks cleansing, a clean heart, a renewed spirit, God’s presence, and the joy of salvation. Psalm 51:13–17 looks ahead to teaching, praise, and a contrite heart offered to God. The closing prayer for Zion and acceptable sacrifices in Psalm 51:18–19 keeps worship and the community in view. Let this prayer shape your own: ask God to change your desires and strengthen your willing obedience, so that forgiven life bears praise and good for others.
Accept the responsibility that remains after forgiveness. Nathan announces that David’s sin is put away, yet he also declares grave consequences, and the child dies (2 Samuel 12:10–23). David prays earnestly for the child and later returns to worship. This is a particular prophetic judgment in David’s history; it is not a rule for explaining another person’s loss. Its relevant distinction is that pardon does not undo every consequence. Seek mercy while facing truthfully the effects of what you have done.
Further study: Joel LeMon
Turn to Jesus Christ in repentance and faith
Turn toward the Lord you are called to trust. In Mark 1:14–15, Jesus announces that God’s kingdom is at hand and commands people to repent and believe the gospel. Paul describes his own preaching as repentance toward God and faith toward the Lord Jesus Christ, and calls his ministry a testimony to God’s grace (Acts 20:17–24). Repentance and faith belong to this one response: abandon allegiance to sin and entrust yourself to Jesus. The good news supplies the reason you can turn with hope.
That good news concerns what Christ has done. In Luke 24:44–49, the risen Jesus explains the Scriptures concerning his suffering and resurrection and directs the preaching of repentance and forgiveness in his name to all nations. At Pentecost, Peter proclaims the crucified Jesus as risen and exalted Lord. He reasons that David died and was buried, whereas God raised Jesus, whom the apostles have witnessed alive (Acts 2:22–36). Turning to Christ is a response to the living Savior, who has acted to rescue sinners.
When Peter’s hearers ask what to do, he tells them to repent and be baptized in Jesus Christ’s name for the remission of sins, and promises the gift of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:37–41). Remission means forgiveness. Those who receive the message are baptized and enter a shared life of apostolic teaching, fellowship, prayer, and care for one another (Acts 2:42–47). Respond to Christ with that serious, open commitment. Seek baptism and instruction with his church, and begin learning the life into which he calls you.
God’s gift remains central throughout this response. In Acts 10:34–48, Peter proclaims Jesus’ death and resurrection and promises forgiveness through faith in him. The Gentile hearers receive the Spirit while Peter is speaking, before their water baptism; Peter then commands their baptism. When he explains what happened, the Jerusalem believers praise God for granting the Gentiles repentance unto life (Acts 11:1–18). These accounts hold together God’s gracious initiative and the response he commands. They join faith, repentance, baptism, forgiveness, and the Spirit, with a different narrated order in the Gentile household. The related guide on following Jesus explores the substantial differences Christians have about baptism’s relation to saving grace.
Receive this life as grace. Ephesians 2:1–10 moves from death in sins to God’s rich mercy, life with Christ, and salvation by grace through faith. It excludes boasting in works, then describes believers as God’s workmanship, created for good works. Turning and obeying are responses to God’s saving kindness. Becoming a disciple is the beginning of this life; the continuing confession addressed to believers in 1 John 1:5–2:2 belongs within it. Both depend on Christ’s mercy, and both call for a real response.
Further study: Scott Shauf
Confess your sins and rely on Christ’s forgiveness
Continue bringing your sin into God’s light. First John 1:5–10 contrasts claiming fellowship while walking in darkness with walking in the light, and contrasts denying sin with confessing it. Walking in the light cannot mean claiming to have reached sinlessness, because the very people who walk there receive cleansing through Jesus’ blood. In 1 John 1:9, forgiveness and cleansing rest on God’s faithfulness and justice. Be truthful about the sins you know and trust the promise he gives.
Let that promise encourage obedience and sustain you when you fail. John writes so that his readers will not sin, then says that if anyone sins they have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous (1 John 2:1–2). An advocate acts on another’s behalf; your hope is in the righteous Son who represents you before the Father. John calls him the propitiation for sins: his sacrifice provides forgiveness and restores fellowship with God. His next words connect knowing Christ with keeping his commandments and walking as he walked (1 John 2:3–6). Receive forgiveness and take up obedience together.
You return to a sufficient Savior. Hebrews 10:1–18 contrasts repeated sacrifices, which cannot take away sins, with Christ’s one offering. It connects that offering with God’s promise to remember sins no more. The response in Hebrews 10:19–25 is therefore to draw near with a true heart, hold fast to the faithful God’s promise, and encourage one another in love and good works. Confession relies on what Christ has accomplished; the intensity of your grief does not supply an additional sacrifice. Come to God with truthful faith and receive the fellowship and help he provides.
Jesus makes asking forgiveness part of his disciples’ prayer. In Matthew 6:9–13, those who address God as Father ask for daily bread, forgiveness, and deliverance from evil. Their need for mercy continues as they seek his will. Matthew 6:14–15 also gives a serious instruction about forgiving others: receiving mercy belongs with extending it. Keep that prayer and practice together. For fuller teaching about your responsibilities toward someone who has wronged you, continue with the related guide on forgiving and making peace.
Further study: Alicia D. Myers
Let repentance shape your desires and conduct
Follow confession with a changed course. Proverbs 28:13–14 joins confessing and forsaking sins with mercy, and contrasts a responsive heart with a hardened one. Second Corinthians 7:8–10 helps explain the place of sorrow. Paul’s painful letter grieved the Corinthians, but he rejoices because their sorrow led to repentance. He distinguishes grief that turns toward God and salvation from worldly grief that ends in death. The question is what your sorrow leads you to do with the wrong before God.
Paul points to an actual response: the Corinthians’ earnestness, concern, zeal, and willingness to address the matter (2 Corinthians 7:11–16). The word translated “revenge” in 2 Corinthians 7:11 concerns dealing with the offence, including punishment of the offender. Their sorrow has led them to take responsibility for the wrong within the congregation. Receive truthful correction, take the wrong seriously, and act on the obedience it requires.
John the Baptist gives concrete content to the fruit of repentance in Luke 3:7–14. Those with food and clothing are to share with the needy; tax collectors are to take only what is appointed; soldiers are to abandon violence and false accusation and be content with their wages. John prepares people for the greater one who is coming (Luke 3:15–18). These responsibilities fit the people addressed and show how turning to God reaches possessions, work, power, and treatment of others. Paul likewise calls people to repent, turn to God, and do deeds fitting repentance within his proclamation of the suffering and risen Christ (Acts 26:19–23).
Give the good that replaces the wrong an active place. In Ephesians 4:17–24, learning Christ means leaving the former way of life, being renewed in the mind, and putting on the new person created in righteousness and holiness. Ephesians 4:25–32 makes that visible: speak truth, handle anger faithfully, work honestly so that you can give, and use words that build others up. The thief’s change reaches beyond ceasing to steal to doing useful work and sharing. Ask both what must cease and what faithful action should take its place.
Look beneath conduct to the desires directing it. James 4:1–3 traces quarrels to warring desires and requests aimed at self-indulgence. James 4:6–10 responds with God’s greater grace, submission to him, cleansing of hands and hearts, and humility. Draw near to God willing for him to correct what you love and seek. Repentance reaches inward loyalties as well as outward actions.
Depend on the life Christ gives as you practice this obedience. Romans 6:1–14 explains that being joined to Christ’s death and resurrection calls believers to present themselves to God and walk in newness of life. Grace frees them from treating sin as their master. Titus 2:11–14 similarly describes saving grace as teaching godly conduct and Christ’s self-giving as forming a people eager for good works. Seek his help, take the next act of obedience seriously, and continue learning the habits of the life he gives.
Further study: NET Bible translators and editors
Take responsibility for harm and make appropriate repair
Take the injured person’s loss seriously when you confess the wrong. Leviticus 6:1–7 calls dishonesty toward a neighbor a trespass against the LORD and requires the return of the property with an added fifth, together with the prescribed offering. Numbers 5:5–10 expressly joins confession to repayment to the person wronged. These are laws for Israel’s covenant life, with particular offerings and amounts. Their concern is plain: approaching God truthfully includes responsibility toward the neighbor whose goods have been taken. Return what you have wrongfully kept and pursue the repair you can make.
Give reconciliation timely attention. In Matthew 5:21–26, Jesus moves from the command against murder to anger and contempt, then pictures a worshiper remembering his brother’s grievance at the altar. He directs him first to seek reconciliation and then return to his offering; the next illustration of settling a dispute before court reinforces the urgency. Worship and responsibility to the person wronged belong together. Acknowledge your conduct to those affected, seek their forgiveness, and address the wrong itself.
Zacchaeus’s declaration gives a particular example of generosity and restitution. In Luke 19:1–10, Jesus takes the initiative to stay with the tax collector, who welcomes him joyfully. Zacchaeus speaks of giving half his goods to the poor and restoring fourfold what he has taken by false accusation. Jesus announces salvation and explains his mission to seek and save the lost. Interpreters differ over whether Zacchaeus is announcing a new resolve or explaining his existing practice. Either way, the words describe his particular declaration; they do not impose those amounts on every person seeking forgiveness. Take seriously the connection between life with Christ, generosity, and responsibility for loss, while resting salvation in his saving mission.
Pursue repair with honesty about what it can accomplish. Restitution addresses a person’s loss; it cannot make the original wrong never have happened or purchase forgiveness from God. David’s pardon and remaining consequences in 2 Samuel 12:13–23 make that distinction visible. Tell the truth, return what can be returned, and accept the responsibilities that remain. Romans 12:18 directs you to live peaceably with everyone as far as it depends on you; reconciliation also involves the other person’s response. Undertake faithful repair patiently, recognizing that your confession does not by itself restore a damaged relationship to what it was.
Further study: NET Bible translators and editors · David Lose · Catholic Church
Return after failure and continue following Christ
Christ’s help reaches a disciple who has failed seriously. In Luke 22:31–34, Jesus tells Peter that he has prayed for his faith and directs him, when he has returned, to strengthen his brothers. The KJV’s “when thou art converted” in Luke 22:32 concerns this disciple’s return after the denial Jesus then predicts. Peter had confidently promised loyalty even to death; later he denies knowing Jesus three times, remembers the Lord’s words, and weeps (Luke 22:54–62). His confidence in himself gives way to a need for the help Christ has already promised.
The risen Jesus gives Peter a way forward. After sharing food with the disciples, he asks Peter three times whether he loves him and charges him to feed his lambs and sheep (John 21:1–17). Peter’s renewed service is directed toward people who belong to Jesus. John 21:18–19 then points to Peter’s future costly faithfulness and repeats the call to follow. This particular restoration gives reason to seek Christ after failure and receive the obedience he now requires. It is not a general promise that confession immediately restores every former responsibility or church office.
Keep receiving the correction that belongs to life with him. Revelation 3:14–22 addresses the church in Laodicea, whose claim to wealth and self-sufficiency conceals its need. Jesus calls it to seek what he supplies, says that he rebukes and disciplines those he loves, and commands zeal and repentance. The invitation to open the door in Revelation 3:20 therefore speaks here to people within a church being called back to fellowship with him. Continuing repentance is part of hearing the Lord who already addresses his people.
Continue toward him with the seriousness Scripture gives this response. Hebrews 5:11–6:3 urges growth beyond immaturity; Hebrews 6:4–8 warns that those who have shared profound spiritual benefits and then fall away cannot be renewed to repentance, describing their rejection as putting the Son of God to open shame. The following verses express confidence in the readers and urge them to continue in love, faith, and patience (Hebrews 6:9–12). Christians differ over the exact condition and prior spiritual standing of those described. The warning itself is severe: keep receiving Christ rather than presuming that you can abandon him and arrange a return on your own terms.
The same letter tells its hearers to draw near, hold fast, and encourage one another (Hebrews 10:19–25). Its warning against willful sin describes trampling on the Son of God and insulting the Spirit of grace, then calls for enduring faith (Hebrews 10:26–39). Read these appeals alongside Peter’s return and John’s promise of Christ’s advocacy. They call you to take sin seriously and come to the Savior, rather than treating every repentant failure as a verdict that seeking him is now forbidden.
Let mercy lead you into reverence and hope. Psalm 130:1–4 cries from the depths, acknowledges that no one could stand if the LORD kept account of iniquities, and finds forgiveness with him. That forgiveness gives a reason to fear him—to approach him with reverent trust. Psalm 130:5–8 waits on his word and calls Israel to hope in his abundant redemption. Bring your sin to God, receive the promise of his mercy, and keep walking in the life he calls you to live.
Further study: Herbert W. Bateman IV · NET Bible translators and editors · R. Bruce Compton
Read the passages
Scripture in context
47 contextual selections for this subject, including the passages cited above and further related reading. Every selected range is reproduced in full from the KJV. Context notes identify the setting and kind of evidence.
Israelite covenant legislation 2 selections
Leviticus 6:1–7 KJV · In this guide
Context: The particular trespass-offering law addresses deception, robbery, entrusted and found property, repayment and priestly atonement.
6:1 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
6:2 If a soul sin, and commit a trespass against the LORD, and lie unto his neighbour in that which was delivered him to keep, or in fellowship, or in a thing taken away by violence, or hath deceived his neighbour;
6:3 Or have found that which was lost, and lieth concerning it, and sweareth falsely; in any of all these that a man doeth, sinning therein:
6:4 Then it shall be, because he hath sinned, and is guilty, that he shall restore that which he took violently away, or the thing which he hath deceitfully gotten, or that which was delivered him to keep, or the lost thing which he found,
6:5 Or all that about which he hath sworn falsely; he shall even restore it in the principal, and shall add the fifth part more thereto, and give it unto him to whom it appertaineth, in the day of his trespass offering.
6:6 And he shall bring his trespass offering unto the LORD, a ram without blemish out of the flock, with thy estimation, for a trespass offering, unto the priest:
6:7 And the priest shall make an atonement for him before the LORD: and it shall be forgiven him for any thing of all that he hath done in trespassing therein.
Numbers 5:5–10 KJV · In this guide
Context: The law joins confession to repayment, specifies a kinsman/priests provision and clarifies holy gifts.
5:5 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
5:6 Speak unto the children of Israel, When a man or woman shall commit any sin that men commit, to do a trespass against the LORD, and that person be guilty;
5:7 Then they shall confess their sin which they have done: and he shall recompense his trespass with the principal thereof, and add unto it the fifth part thereof, and give it unto him against whom he hath trespassed.
5:8 But if the man have no kinsman to recompense the trespass unto, let the trespass be recompensed unto the LORD, even to the priest; beside the ram of the atonement, whereby an atonement shall be made for him.
5:9 And every offering of all the holy things of the children of Israel, which they bring unto the priest, shall be his.
5:10 And every man’s hallowed things shall be his: whatsoever any man giveth the priest, it shall be his.
Evaluated royal narrative and prophetic judgment 1 selections
2 Samuel 12:1–25 KJV · In this guide
Context: Nathan confronts David over Uriah and his wife through a parable, declares pardon and judgment, and the narrative records the child’s death and Solomon’s birth.
12:1 And the LORD sent Nathan unto David. And he came unto him, and said unto him, There were two men in one city; the one rich, and the other poor.
12:2 The rich man had exceeding many flocks and herds:
12:3 But the poor man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up: and it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own meat, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto him as a daughter.
12:4 And there came a traveller unto the rich man, and he spared to take of his own flock and of his own herd, to dress for the wayfaring man that was come unto him; but took the poor man’s lamb, and dressed it for the man that was come to him.
12:5 And David’s anger was greatly kindled against the man; and he said to Nathan, As the LORD liveth, the man that hath done this thing shall surely die:
12:6 And he shall restore the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing, and because he had no pity.
12:7 And Nathan said to David, Thou art the man. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I anointed thee king over Israel, and I delivered thee out of the hand of Saul;
12:8 And I gave thee thy master’s house, and thy master’s wives into thy bosom, and gave thee the house of Israel and of Judah; and if that had been too little, I would moreover have given unto thee such and such things.
12:9 Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the LORD, to do evil in his sight? thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon.
12:10 Now therefore the sword shall never depart from thine house; because thou hast despised me, and hast taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be thy wife.
12:11 Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun.
12:12 For thou didst it secretly: but I will do this thing before all Israel, and before the sun.
12:13 And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.
12:14 Howbeit, because by this deed thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme, the child also that is born unto thee shall surely die.
12:15 And Nathan departed unto his house. And the LORD struck the child that Uriah’s wife bare unto David, and it was very sick.
12:16 David therefore besought God for the child; and David fasted, and went in, and lay all night upon the earth.
12:17 And the elders of his house arose, and went to him, to raise him up from the earth: but he would not, neither did he eat bread with them.
12:18 And it came to pass on the seventh day, that the child died. And the servants of David feared to tell him that the child was dead: for they said, Behold, while the child was yet alive, we spake unto him, and he would not hearken unto our voice: how will he then vex himself, if we tell him that the child is dead?
12:19 But when David saw that his servants whispered, David perceived that the child was dead: therefore David said unto his servants, Is the child dead? And they said, He is dead.
12:20 Then David arose from the earth, and washed, and anointed himself, and changed his apparel, and came into the house of the LORD, and worshipped: then he came to his own house; and when he required, they set bread before him, and he did eat.
12:21 Then said his servants unto him, What thing is this that thou hast done? thou didst fast and weep for the child, while it was alive; but when the child was dead, thou didst rise and eat bread.
12:22 And he said, While the child was yet alive, I fasted and wept: for I said, Who can tell whether GOD will be gracious to me, that the child may live?
12:23 But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.
12:24 And David comforted Bath-sheba his wife, and went in unto her, and lay with her: and she bare a son, and he called his name Solomon: and the LORD loved him.
12:25 And he sent by the hand of Nathan the prophet; and he called his name Jedidiah, because of the LORD.
Penitential testimony and wisdom poetry 1 selections
Psalms 32:1–11 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete psalm moves from blessed forgiveness through concealed and confessed guilt to prayer, instruction, trust and joy.
32:1 Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
32:2 Blessed is the man unto whom the LORD imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile.
32:3 When I kept silence, my bones waxed old through my roaring all the day long.
32:4 For day and night thy hand was heavy upon me: my moisture is turned into the drought of summer. Selah.
32:5 I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.
32:6 For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee in a time when thou mayest be found: surely in the floods of great waters they shall not come nigh unto him.
32:7 Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah.
32:8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.
32:9 Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.
32:10 Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the LORD, mercy shall compass him about.
32:11 Be glad in the LORD, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.
Prayer poetry 1 selections
Psalms 51:1–19 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete penitential prayer seeks mercy, inward truth, cleansing, a renewed heart and worship; its ending includes Zion and sacrifice. Its traditional superscription associates the prayer with David and Nathan.
51:1 Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.
51:2 Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.
51:3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me.
51:4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest.
51:5 Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.
51:6 Behold, thou desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden part thou shalt make me to know wisdom.
51:7 Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean: wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.
51:8 Make me to hear joy and gladness; that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoice.
51:9 Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities.
51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.
51:11 Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me.
51:12 Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit.
51:13 Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.
51:14 Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.
51:15 O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.
51:16 For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering.
51:17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.
51:18 Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem.
51:19 Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of righteousness, with burnt offering and whole burnt offering: then shall they offer bullocks upon thine altar.
Penitential lament and hope poetry 1 selections
Psalms 130:1–8 KJV · In this guide
Context: The entire ascent psalm moves from a personal cry through the impossibility of standing under counted guilt to forgiveness, reverence and Israel’s hope.
130:1 Out of the depths have I cried unto thee, O LORD.
130:2 Lord, hear my voice: let thine ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications.
130:3 If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand?
130:4 But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.
130:5 I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.
130:6 My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning.
130:7 Let Israel hope in the LORD: for with the LORD there is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption.
130:8 And he shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities.
Wisdom sayings 1 selections
Proverbs 28:13–14 KJV · In this guide
Context: Two adjacent wisdom sayings contrast concealed and forsaken sin, mercy and hardness of heart.
Prophetic invitation and promise 1 selections
Isaiah 55:1–13 KJV · In this guide
Context: The invitation to free provision and the everlasting covenant leads to seeking the LORD, abandoning wicked ways, and trusting his effective word within Israel’s promised renewal.
55:1 Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.
55:2 Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.
55:3 Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.
55:4 Behold, I have given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people.
55:5 Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the LORD thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee.
55:6 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:
55:7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
55:8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
55:9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
55:10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:
55:11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
55:12 For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.
55:13 Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.
Prophetic dispute and exhortation 1 selections
Ezekiel 18:19–32 KJV
Context: The house of Israel questions God’s justice; the prophet addresses individual responsibility, turning, life and death and the Lord’s desire that they live.
18:19 Yet say ye, Why? doth not the son bear the iniquity of the father? When the son hath done that which is lawful and right, and hath kept all my statutes, and hath done them, he shall surely live.
18:20 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.
18:21 But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.
18:22 All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live.
18:23 Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live?
18:24 But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.
18:25 Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. Hear now, O house of Israel; Is not my way equal? are not your ways unequal?
18:26 When a righteous man turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and dieth in them; for his iniquity that he hath done shall he die.
18:27 Again, when the wicked man turneth away from his wickedness that he hath committed, and doeth that which is lawful and right, he shall save his soul alive.
18:28 Because he considereth, and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.
18:29 Yet saith the house of Israel, The way of the Lord is not equal. O house of Israel, are not my ways equal? are not your ways unequal?
18:30 Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his ways, saith the Lord GOD. Repent, and turn yourselves from all your transgressions; so iniquity shall not be your ruin.
18:31 Cast away from you all your transgressions, whereby ye have transgressed; and make you a new heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel?
18:32 For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dieth, saith the Lord GOD: wherefore turn yourselves, and live ye.
Covenant restoration promise 1 selections
Ezekiel 36:22–32 KJV
Context: God promises the scattered house of Israel cleansing, a new heart and Spirit, restored land and changed conduct for his name’s sake.
36:22 Therefore say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I do not this for your sakes, O house of Israel, but for mine holy name’s sake, which ye have profaned among the heathen, whither ye went.
36:23 And I will sanctify my great name, which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the LORD, saith the Lord GOD, when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes.
36:24 For I will take you from among the heathen, and gather you out of all countries, and will bring you into your own land.
36:25 Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you.
36:26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.
36:27 And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them.
36:28 And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God.
36:29 I will also save you from all your uncleannesses: and I will call for the corn, and will increase it, and lay no famine upon you.
36:30 And I will multiply the fruit of the tree, and the increase of the field, that ye shall receive no more reproach of famine among the heathen.
36:31 Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that were not good, and shall lothe yourselves in your own sight for your iniquities and for your abominations.
36:32 Not for your sakes do I this, saith the Lord GOD, be it known unto you: be ashamed and confounded for your own ways, O house of Israel.
Prophetic invitation and restoration promise 1 selections
Hosea 14:1–9 KJV
Context: Israel is called to bring words, renounce misplaced trust in Assyria and idols and receive God’s freely given healing; the book closes with a call to wise walking.
14:1 O Israel, return unto the LORD thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity.
14:2 Take with you words, and turn to the LORD: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips.
14:3 Asshur shall not save us; we will not ride upon horses: neither will we say any more to the work of our hands, Ye are our gods: for in thee the fatherless findeth mercy.
14:4 I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him.
14:5 I will be as the dew unto Israel: he shall grow as the lily, and cast forth his roots as Lebanon.
14:6 His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree, and his smell as Lebanon.
14:7 They that dwell under his shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine: the scent thereof shall be as the wine of Lebanon.
14:8 Ephraim shall say, What have I to do any more with idols? I have heard him, and observed him: I am like a green fir tree. From me is thy fruit found.
14:9 Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the LORD are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein.
Prophetic corporate summons 1 selections
Joel 2:12–17 KJV
Context: Amid announced judgment, the prophet calls the whole community, including priests and children, to heartfelt return grounded in God’s merciful character.
2:12 Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning:
2:13 And rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil.
2:14 Who knoweth if he will return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him; even a meat offering and a drink offering unto the LORD your God?
2:15 Blow the trumpet in Zion, sanctify a fast, call a solemn assembly:
2:16 Gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the children, and those that suck the breasts: let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet.
2:17 Let the priests, the ministers of the LORD, weep between the porch and the altar, and let them say, Spare thy people, O LORD, and give not thine heritage to reproach, that the heathen should rule over them: wherefore should they say among the people, Where is their God?
Jesus’ ethical teaching 1 selections
Matthew 5:21–26 KJV · In this guide
Context: The murder command, anger and contempt, the interrupted offering and the pre-court settlement all press the seriousness and urgency of relationships.
5:21 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment:
5:22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.
5:23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee;
5:24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
5:25 Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison.
5:26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
Jesus’ prayer instruction 1 selections
Matthew 6:5–15 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus contrasts sincere prayer with display and empty repetition, gives the disciples’ prayer, and explains the obligation to forgive.
6:5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
6:6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.
6:7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.
6:8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
6:9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
6:10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
6:11 Give us this day our daily bread.
6:12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
6:13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6:14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:
6:15 But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Gospel announcement and call narrative 1 selections
Mark 1:14–20 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus announces the kingdom following John’s imprisonment and calls the first named disciples to follow him.
1:14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,
1:15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.
1:16 Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.
1:17 And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.
1:18 And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him.
1:19 And when he had gone a little further thence, he saw James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were in the ship mending their nets.
1:20 And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him.
Prophetic exhortation in Gospel narrative 1 selections
Luke 3:1–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: John’s prophetic preparation includes baptism, warning, concrete replies to groups asking what to do, and the coming stronger one.
3:1 Now in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Cæsar, Pontius Pilate being governor of Judæa, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene,
3:2 Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness.
3:3 And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins;
3:4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.
3:5 Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low; and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways shall be made smooth;
3:6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.
3:7 Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?
3:8 Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.
3:9 And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
3:10 And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?
3:11 He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise.
3:12 Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master, what shall we do?
3:13 And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you.
3:14 And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.
3:15 And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not;
3:16 John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire:
3:17 Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable.
3:18 And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people.
Gospel narrative and Jesus’ explanation 1 selections
Luke 5:27–32 KJV · In this guide
Context: Levi’s call and feast occasion criticism of Jesus’ company; the physician comparison explains his mission.
5:27 And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.
5:28 And he left all, rose up, and followed him.
5:29 And Levi made him a great feast in his own house: and there was a great company of publicans and of others that sat down with them.
5:30 But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?
5:31 And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick.
5:32 I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Jesus’ teaching and parable 1 selections
Luke 13:1–9 KJV · In this guide
Context: Two reported deaths prompt Jesus’ call for everyone’s repentance; the fruitless fig tree holds patient care and judgment together.
13:1 There were present at that season some that told him of the Galilæans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices.
13:2 And Jesus answering said unto them, Suppose ye that these Galilæans were sinners above all the Galilæans, because they suffered such things?
13:3 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
13:4 Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem?
13:5 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
13:6 He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none.
13:7 Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?
13:8 And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it:
13:9 And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.
Parables 1 selections
Luke 15:1–32 KJV · In this guide
Context: All three parables answer the complaint that Jesus welcomes and eats with sinners. The final appeal to the elder brother preserves the purpose of the younger son’s welcome.
15:1 Then drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for to hear him.
15:2 And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.
15:3 And he spake this parable unto them, saying,
15:4 What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it?
15:5 And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing.
15:6 And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.
15:7 I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.
15:8 Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find it?
15:9 And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost.
15:10 Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.
15:11 And he said, A certain man had two sons:
15:12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.
15:13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.
15:14 And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.
15:15 And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
15:16 And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him.
15:17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!
15:18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
15:19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants.
15:20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
15:21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.
15:22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet:
15:23 And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry:
15:24 For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry.
15:25 Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing.
15:26 And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant.
15:27 And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound.
15:28 And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him.
15:29 And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends:
15:30 But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf.
15:31 And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine.
15:32 It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found.
Gospel narrative 1 selections
Luke 19:1–10 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus’ journey through Jericho brings his initiative, the crowd’s complaint, Zacchaeus’s financial declaration and Jesus’ saving announcement.
19:1 And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho.
19:2 And, behold, there was a man named Zacchæus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich.
19:3 And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature.
19:4 And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way.
19:5 And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchæus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house.
19:6 And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully.
19:7 And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner.
19:8 And Zacchæus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold.
19:9 And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham.
19:10 For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
Prophetic dialogue in passion narrative 1 selections
Luke 22:31–34 KJV · In this guide
Context: Before the arrest, Jesus predicts Peter’s denial, speaks of his intercession and charges him to strengthen others after returning.
22:31 And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat:
22:32 But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.
22:33 And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death.
22:34 And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me.
Passion narrative 1 selections
Luke 22:54–62 KJV · In this guide
Context: During Jesus’ detention Peter’s three denials fulfill the prediction; Jesus’ look prompts remembrance and tears.
22:54 Then took they him, and led him, and brought him into the high priest’s house. And Peter followed afar off.
22:55 And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the hall, and were set down together, Peter sat down among them.
22:56 But a certain maid beheld him as he sat by the fire, and earnestly looked upon him, and said, This man was also with him.
22:57 And he denied him, saying, Woman, I know him not.
22:58 And after a little while another saw him, and said, Thou art also of them. And Peter said, Man, I am not.
22:59 And about the space of one hour after another confidently affirmed, saying, Of a truth this fellow also was with him: for he is a Galilæan.
22:60 And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew.
22:61 And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.
22:62 And Peter went out, and wept bitterly.
Resurrection teaching and commission 1 selections
Luke 24:44–49 KJV · In this guide
Context: The risen Jesus opens his disciples’ understanding of Scripture and commissions witness after his suffering and resurrection.
24:44 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
24:45 Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,
24:46 And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:
24:47 And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
24:48 And ye are witnesses of these things.
24:49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.
Resurrection appearance and commission 1 selections
John 20:19–23 KJV · In this guide
Context: The risen Jesus appears to gathered disciples, gives peace, shows wounds, sends them and gives the Spirit before the forgiveness commission.
20:19 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.
20:20 And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord.
20:21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.
20:22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:
20:23 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.
Resurrection narrative and particular commission 1 selections
John 21:1–19 KJV · In this guide
Context: The fishing appearance and meal lead to three questions about Peter’s love, three charges of care and a prediction of his death followed by the call to follow.
21:1 After these things Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this wise shewed he himself.
21:2 There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of his disciples.
21:3 Simon Peter saith unto them, I go a fishing. They say unto him, We also go with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing.
21:4 But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore: but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus.
21:5 Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat? They answered him, No.
21:6 And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes.
21:7 Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he girt his fisher’s coat unto him, (for he was naked,) and did cast himself into the sea.
21:8 And the other disciples came in a little ship; (for they were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,) dragging the net with fishes.
21:9 As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread.
21:10 Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught.
21:11 Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land full of great fishes, an hundred and fifty and three: and for all there were so many, yet was not the net broken.
21:12 Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it was the Lord.
21:13 Jesus then cometh, and taketh bread, and giveth them, and fish likewise.
21:14 This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to his disciples, after that he was risen from the dead.
21:15 So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my lambs.
21:16 He saith to him again the second time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
21:17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
21:18 Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not.
21:19 This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.
Apostolic proclamation and conversion narrative 1 selections
Acts 2:14–47 KJV · In this guide
Context: Peter’s full Pentecost address explains the Spirit through Joel and Jesus’ resurrection and exaltation through Davidic texts; the crowd responds and a new shared life follows.
2:14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judæa, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:
2:15 For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day.
2:16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel;
2:17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:
2:18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:
2:19 And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke:
2:20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come:
2:21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.
2:22 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know:
2:23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:
2:24 Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.
2:25 For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved:
2:26 Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope:
2:27 Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
2:28 Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
2:29 Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day.
2:30 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;
2:31 He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.
2:32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.
2:33 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.
2:34 For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand,
2:35 Until I make thy foes thy footstool.
2:36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.
2:37 Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do?
2:38 Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
2:39 For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.
2:40 And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation.
2:41 Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
2:42 And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
2:43 And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
2:44 And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
2:45 And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need.
2:46 And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,
2:47 Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.
Apostolic proclamation and mission narrative 1 selections
Acts 10:34–48 KJV · In this guide
Context: Peter proclaims Jesus in Cornelius’s house; the Gentiles receive the Spirit while hearing, and Peter commands water baptism.
10:34 Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that God is no respecter of persons:
10:35 But in every nation he that feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.
10:36 The word which God sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is Lord of all:)
10:37 That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judæa, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached;
10:38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
10:39 And we are witnesses of all things which he did both in the land of the Jews, and in Jerusalem; whom they slew and hanged on a tree:
10:40 Him God raised up the third day, and shewed him openly;
10:41 Not to all the people, but unto witnesses chosen before of God, even to us, who did eat and drink with him after he rose from the dead.
10:42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people, and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be the Judge of quick and dead.
10:43 To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.
10:44 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.
10:45 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.
10:46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,
10:47 Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
10:48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.
Apostolic explanation and communal response 1 selections
Acts 11:1–18 KJV · In this guide
Context: Peter answers criticism of eating with Gentiles by recounting God’s instruction, witnesses and the Spirit’s gift; the church glorifies God.
11:1 And the apostles and brethren that were in Judæa heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God.
11:2 And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him,
11:3 Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them.
11:4 But Peter rehearsed the matter from the beginning, and expounded it by order unto them, saying,
11:5 I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me:
11:6 Upon the which when I had fastened mine eyes, I considered, and saw fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and creeping things, and fowls of the air.
11:7 And I heard a voice saying unto me, Arise, Peter; slay and eat.
11:8 But I said, Not so, Lord: for nothing common or unclean hath at any time entered into my mouth.
11:9 But the voice answered me again from heaven, What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.
11:10 And this was done three times: and all were drawn up again into heaven.
11:11 And, behold, immediately there were three men already come unto the house where I was, sent from Cæsarea unto me.
11:12 And the Spirit bade me go with them, nothing doubting. Moreover these six brethren accompanied me, and we entered into the man’s house:
11:13 And he shewed us how he had seen an angel in his house, which stood and said unto him, Send men to Joppa, and call for Simon, whose surname is Peter;
11:14 Who shall tell thee words, whereby thou and all thy house shall be saved.
11:15 And as I began to speak, the Holy Ghost fell on them, as on us at the beginning.
11:16 Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost.
11:17 Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God?
11:18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.
Apostolic farewell address 1 selections
Acts 20:17–38 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul’s entire farewell speech recalls his ministry, names repentance and faith, anticipates suffering and charges the Ephesian elders to faithful care.
20:17 And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.
20:18 And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons,
20:19 Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews:
20:20 And how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have shewed you, and have taught you publickly, and from house to house,
20:21 Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.
20:22 And now, behold, I go bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there:
20:23 Save that the Holy Ghost witnesseth in every city, saying that bonds and afflictions abide me.
20:24 But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.
20:25 And now, behold, I know that ye all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, shall see my face no more.
20:26 Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men.
20:27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.
20:28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.
20:29 For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock.
20:30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
20:31 Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears.
20:32 And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
20:33 I have coveted no man’s silver, or gold, or apparel.
20:34 Yea, ye yourselves know, that these hands have ministered unto my necessities, and to them that were with me.
20:35 I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.
20:36 And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down, and prayed with them all.
20:37 And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul’s neck, and kissed him,
20:38 Sorrowing most of all for the words which he spake, that they should see his face no more. And they accompanied him unto the ship.
Apostolic defense and mission testimony 1 selections
Acts 26:12–23 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul recounts his encounter and commission before Agrippa, his obedient proclamation and its continuity with Moses and the prophets.
26:12 Whereupon as I went to Damascus with authority and commission from the chief priests,
26:13 At midday, O king, I saw in the way a light from heaven, above the brightness of the sun, shining round about me and them which journeyed with me.
26:14 And when we were all fallen to the earth, I heard a voice speaking unto me, and saying in the Hebrew tongue, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.
26:15 And I said, Who art thou, Lord? And he said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest.
26:16 But rise, and stand upon thy feet: for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness both of these things which thou hast seen, and of those things in the which I will appear unto thee;
26:17 Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee,
26:18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.
26:19 Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:
26:20 But shewed first unto them of Damascus, and at Jerusalem, and throughout all the coasts of Judæa, and then to the Gentiles, that they should repent and turn to God, and do works meet for repentance.
26:21 For these causes the Jews caught me in the temple, and went about to kill me.
26:22 Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:
26:23 That Christ should suffer, and that he should be the first that should rise from the dead, and should shew light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.
Apostolic theological and ethical argument 1 selections
Romans 6:1–23 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul answers two proposals to continue in sin under grace by appealing to union with Christ and a changed master, ending with God’s gift of eternal life.
6:1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?
6:2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?
6:3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?
6:4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
6:5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:
6:6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.
6:7 For he that is dead is freed from sin.
6:8 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him:
6:9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him.
6:10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God.
6:11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
6:12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.
6:13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
6:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
6:15 What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
6:16 Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?
6:17 But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you.
6:18 Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness.
6:19 I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.
6:20 For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.
6:21 What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.
6:22 But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.
6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Apostolic ethical instruction 1 selections
Romans 12:9–21 KJV · In this guide
Context: Instructions about sincere love and shared life lead to peace with others, refusal of personal vengeance and overcoming evil with good.
12:9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;
12:11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
12:12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
12:13 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
12:14 Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
12:15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
12:16 Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
12:17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
12:19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
12:20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
12:21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
Pastoral appeal 1 selections
2 Corinthians 2:1–11 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul explains his painful letter and urges sufficient discipline to give way to forgiveness, comfort and reaffirmed love for an unnamed offender.
2:1 But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness.
2:2 For if I make you sorry, who is he then that maketh me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me?
2:3 And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all.
2:4 For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you.
2:5 But if any have caused grief, he hath not grieved me, but in part: that I may not overcharge you all.
2:6 Sufficient to such a man is this punishment, which was inflicted of many.
2:7 So that contrariwise ye ought rather to forgive him, and comfort him, lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.
2:8 Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him.
2:9 For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things.
2:10 To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ;
2:11 Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.
Pastoral testimony and exhortation 1 selections
2 Corinthians 7:2–16 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul recounts distress, Titus’s encouraging report and the Corinthians’ response to his painful letter; the unit ends with confidence in their obedience.
7:2 Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.
7:3 I speak not this to condemn you: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live with you.
7:4 Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my glorying of you: I am filled with comfort, I am exceeding joyful in all our tribulation.
7:5 For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.
7:6 Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus;
7:7 And not by his coming only, but by the consolation wherewith he was comforted in you, when he told us your earnest desire, your mourning, your fervent mind toward me; so that I rejoiced the more.
7:8 For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though it were but for a season.
7:9 Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing.
7:10 For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.
7:11 For behold this selfsame thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of yourselves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge! In all things ye have approved yourselves to be clear in this matter.
7:12 Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, I did it not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the sight of God might appear unto you.
7:13 Therefore we were comforted in your comfort: yea, and exceedingly the more joyed we for the joy of Titus, because his spirit was refreshed by you all.
7:14 For if I have boasted any thing to him of you, I am not ashamed; but as we spake all things to you in truth, even so our boasting, which I made before Titus, is found a truth.
7:15 And his inward affection is more abundant toward you, whilst he remembereth the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling ye received him.
7:16 I rejoice therefore that I have confidence in you in all things.
Apostolic communal exhortation 2 selections
Galatians 6:1–10 KJV · In this guide
Context: Following the account of life by the Spirit, Paul joins gentle restoration, burden-bearing, personal examination and persevering good.
6:1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
6:2 Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.
6:3 For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself.
6:4 But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.
6:5 For every man shall bear his own burden.
6:6 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things.
6:7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
6:8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.
6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
6:10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.
Apostolic teaching 1 selections
Ephesians 2:1–10 KJV · In this guide
Context: The contrast between death in sins and life with Christ culminates in salvation by grace through faith and creation for good works.
2:1 And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins;
2:2 Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience:
2:3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.
2:4 But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,
2:5 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;)
2:6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
2:7 That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.
2:8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:
2:9 Not of works, lest any man should boast.
2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Apostolic ethical teaching 1 selections
Ephesians 4:17–32 KJV · In this guide
Context: Leaving the old life and learning Christ leads to renewed thought and specific instructions about speech, anger, labor, giving and mercy.
4:17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,
4:18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:
4:19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.
4:20 But ye have not so learned Christ;
4:21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus:
4:22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;
4:23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;
4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.
4:25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.
4:26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:
4:27 Neither give place to the devil.
4:28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.
4:29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
4:30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.
4:31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:
4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.
Christological exhortation to a congregation 1 selections
Philippians 2:1–18 KJV
Context: Paul calls the church to shared humility through Christ’s obedient self-giving and exaltation, then grounds continuing obedience in God’s work within them.
2:1 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
2:2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind.
2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.
2:4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.
2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
2:7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:
2:8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.
2:9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
2:10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
2:11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
2:12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
2:13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
2:14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
2:15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
2:16 Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.
2:17 Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.
2:18 For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.
Apostolic instruction to a minister 1 selections
2 Timothy 2:22–26 KJV
Context: Timothy is called to pursue righteousness, avoid quarrels and correct opponents gently, hoping that God grants repentance and escape from deception.
2:22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
2:23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.
2:24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
2:26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.
Apostolic teaching and commission 1 selections
Titus 2:11–15 KJV · In this guide
Context: God’s saving grace grounds the surrounding ethical instruction; Christ’s appearing and self-giving form a people devoted to good works.
2:11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,
2:12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;
2:13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;
2:14 Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.
2:15 These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all authority. Let no man despise thee.
Exhortation, warning and encouragement 1 selections
Hebrews 5:11–6:12 KJV · In this guide
Context: The warning is bracketed by the call to mature understanding and by confidence, loving service and perseverance.
5:11 Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.
5:12 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat.
5:13 For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.
5:14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
6:1 Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,
6:2 Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.
6:3 And this will we do, if God permit.
6:4 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,
6:5 And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,
6:6 If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame.
6:7 For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God:
6:8 But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.
6:9 But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak.
6:10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
6:11 And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end:
6:12 That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises.
Theological exposition and exhortation 1 selections
Hebrews 10:1–25 KJV · In this guide
Context: The contrast between repeated animal offerings and Christ’s one offering grounds the summons to draw near, hold fast and encourage one another.
10:1 For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.
10:2 For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins.
10:3 But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every year.
10:4 For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take away sins.
10:5 Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me:
10:6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure.
10:7 Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God.
10:8 Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law;
10:9 Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second.
10:10 By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
10:11 And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:
10:12 But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God;
10:13 From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.
10:14 For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified.
10:15 Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before,
10:16 This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them;
10:17 And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
10:18 Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.
10:19 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
10:20 By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
10:21 And having an high priest over the house of God;
10:22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
10:23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
10:24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
Warning and encouragement 1 selections
Hebrews 10:26–39 KJV · In this guide
Context: Following the call to draw near and gather, the warning describes rejection of the Son and covenant blood, then recalls past endurance and calls for persevering faith.
10:26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
10:27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.
10:28 He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:
10:29 Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?
10:30 For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.
10:31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
10:32 But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions;
10:33 Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so used.
10:34 For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance.
10:35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward.
10:36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.
10:37 For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.
10:38 Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.
10:39 But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.
Prophetic-style apostolic exhortation 1 selections
James 4:1–10 KJV · In this guide
Context: Quarrels reveal disordered desires and divided loyalty; greater grace leads into submission, cleansing and humility.
4:1 From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?
4:2 Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not.
4:3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.
4:4 Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.
4:5 Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?
4:6 But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.
4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
4:8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded.
4:9 Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and your joy to heaviness.
4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.
Apostolic exhortation and assurance 1 selections
1 John 1:1–2:6 KJV · In this guide
Context: The proclamation of manifested life and fellowship leads to the light/darkness tests, honest confession, Christ’s advocacy and obedient walking.
1:1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;
1:2 (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)
1:3 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.
1:4 And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full.
1:5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
1:6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
1:8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1:10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
2:1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
2:2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
2:3 And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.
2:4 He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
2:5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.
2:6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
Prophetic message to a church 1 selections
Revelation 3:14–22 KJV · In this guide
Context: Christ exposes an existing church’s self-sufficiency, calls it to receive his provision and repent, and promises fellowship and overcoming.
3:14 And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;
3:15 I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.
3:16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.
3:17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:
3:18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
3:19 As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.
3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
3:21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.
3:22 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
Go deeper
Sources & interpretation
The teaching starts with the cited Scripture. These consulted works inform wording, context, and interpretive questions. No qualified human review has been recorded for this guide.
How do confession to God, mutual confession and the church’s ministry of forgiveness belong together?
First John grounds forgiveness in God’s faithfulness and Christ’s advocacy. James calls believers to confess to one another in a setting that includes elders. John 20:21–23 joins sending, the Spirit, and forgiving or retaining sins. Its words give the commission weight but do not spell out all later procedures.
- The Catholic account treats John 20 as authorization for sacramental absolution exercised in apostolic ministry and requires confession of grave sins to a priest. Its appeal is to Christ’s delegated authority, not a second source of atonement.
- Calvin connects the commission to authoritative gospel proclamation: Christ forgives through his heralds, while the authority remains his. James’s mutual language supports confession beyond an exclusively priest-directed reading of that verse.
- Skinner emphasizes the community’s Spirit-enabled witness and interprets retaining as failure to release people through that witness. This attends to John’s mission theme, but the specific explanation is an inference rather than an explicit definition of retaining.
STRONG on confession, truthful communal care and Christ-centered forgiveness; UNCERTAIN on a single universal account of the continuing office from these texts alone. Personal prayer is essential within the wider Christian ministry of reconciliation. The disputed questions include who exercises the commission and how that authority continues.
Further study: Alicia D. Myers · A. K. M. Adam · John Calvin · Matt Skinner · Catholic Church · Catholic Church
Further examination: Which parts of each practice follow directly from the words and audience of these passages, and which require additional conclusions about church office, succession and sacrament? Does the account preserve both mutual confession and the force of Jesus’ commission?
Is Zacchaeus announcing new conduct or describing what he already does?
Luke 19:8 uses the declarations I give and I restore in the KJV. They follow both Jesus’ initiative and the crowd’s complaint. Jesus then announces salvation today and his mission to save the lost.
- The NET notes understand the declaration as a new resolve; the encounter and salvation today supply narrative support.
- Lose takes the present verbs as existing practice defended against the crowd; he stresses that the passage records no explicit admission of sin.
PROBABLE that a new resolve fits Luke’s surrounding repentance and salvation themes, but present-tense grammar does not settle the issue. The declaration connects generosity and repair with Jesus’ welcome on either reading. The duty of appropriate repair also has support in the covenant laws and Jesus’ reconciliation instruction.
Further study: NET Bible translators and editors · David Lose
Further examination: What does each reading explain well about the sequence, and what must it infer? Can the interpretation retain both Jesus’ initiative and the actual economic content without imposing Zacchaeus’s amounts universally?
How should Hebrews’ warning about renewal to repentance be heard by someone seeking to return?
Hebrews 6:4–6 describes profound participation followed by rejection of the Son and says renewal to repentance is impossible. Hebrews 6:9–12 nevertheless encourages the hearers to persevere; Hebrews 10:26–29 characterizes the warned-against sin through rejection of Christ. Peter’s return and 1 John’s advocacy promise must also be retained.
- The spiritual participation described in Hebrews 6:4–5 can be read as genuine Christian life, making the warning a danger believers must heed. Bateman’s overview identifies Osborne and Cockerill with readings that allow decisive apostasy by believers. The strength is the fullness of the description; the relation to the encouragement in 6:9–12 still needs explanation.
- Compton treats the people as professing participants who were never regenerate. He appeals especially to the distinction in 6:9 between their experience and things accompanying salvation. This preserves a real warning and his account of eternal security, but must explain the strong participation language of 6:4–5.
- A separate question concerns the reason renewal is impossible. The NET note permits a causal reading, since they crucify the Son afresh, or a temporal reading, while they do so. The latter locates the impossibility within continued repudiation; grammar alone does not establish that the rejection will end.
STRONG that this is a severe summons to persevere and that impossible retains its force. The prior regeneration of those described and the permanence of their condition remain disputed. Repentance cannot be presumed available on demand after a planned rejection of Christ. Peter’s return and Christ’s advocacy also prevent treating every sin after becoming a disciple as proof that a repentant seeker is barred from him.
Further study: Herbert W. Bateman IV · NET Bible translators and editors · R. Bruce Compton
Further examination: How does each account explain the strong descriptions in verses 4–5, the reason in verse 6, the field illustration and the encouragement in verses 9–12? What evidence distinguishes the rejection warned against from the returning faith the same book urges?
How can repentance be both commanded and given by God?
Mark 1 commands repentance and faith; Acts 11 praises God for granting repentance; 2 Timothy 2 connects its hoped-for gift with gentle instruction. Ezekiel 18 calls Israel to turn and make a new heart, whereas Ezekiel 36 promises God’s cleansing, new heart and Spirit within national restoration. Joel and Hosea join the call to return with God’s merciful character. Philippians 2:12–13 grounds the church’s continuing obedience in God’s work within its members.
- Calvin’s exposition of 2 Timothy 2:25–26 stresses God’s transforming action as the source of repentance. This gives teachers hope to persist with gentleness. Its strength is the explicit attribution of repentance to God; the passage does not explain every step in the relation of grace and will.
- Wesley’s Sermon 85 describes grace that precedes and enables a response but can be resisted. He reasons from God’s work to the believer’s ability and responsibility to act. Philippians 2:12–13 holds divine action and obedience together, but the claim that such enabling grace reaches every person requires a wider argument.
VERY_STRONG that the commands and the gift both belong to the texts. Their conjunction does not establish a complete order of salvation. The prophetic promises retain their Israelite setting. Seek God’s help and answer his word; both belong to the response he calls for.
Further study: John Calvin · John Wesley
Further examination: What do these passages assign to God, what do they ask of hearers and teachers, and where would a proposed sequence go beyond what the particular text explains?
- Commentary on Psalm 51:1–17
Joel LeMon · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2017-03-01; first published 2014-03-05
Draws attention to renewal of the will and the communal ending as well as guilt.
What was reviewed
Discussion of Davidic setting, divine renewal, sacrifice and verses 18–19. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.
Its definite dating of the ending and account of verse 5 are interpretive proposals, not adopted as settled facts. Only the identified portions are relied upon.
- Commentary on Acts 2:14a, 36–41
Scott Shauf · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2014-05-04
Treats repentance as reorientation toward the crucified and exalted Jesus with a changed communal life.
What was reviewed
Exposition of 2:36–41, especially repentance, baptism and the ensuing community; opening account of the speech. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.
Calls baptism a concomitant sign; this short treatment does not settle sacramental disagreements.
- Commentary on 1 John 1:1—2:2
Alicia D. Myers · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2024-04-07
Tests the link between honest confession, continuing cleansing and the living Christ’s advocacy.
What was reviewed
Complete commentary body, especially paragraphs on 1:5–10 and 2:1–2. Accessed 2026-09-26.
A short lectionary treatment, not a complete theory of Johannine sin language or atonement.
- NET Bible: 2 Corinthians 7:11, translator and study notes
NET Bible translators and editors · Biblical Studies Press, classic NET Bible · Web edition; page does not identify a revision date
Checks the contextual sense of indignation and punishment behind the KJV revenge.
What was reviewed
Verse translation and notes 1–5, particularly notes 3 and 5. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.
Verse-level notes, not an identification of the offender or an account of the whole Corinthian correspondence.
- NET Bible: Luke 19:1–10, notes on 19:8–10
NET Bible translators and editors · Biblical Studies Press, via Bible Gateway · 1996–2017 copyright range displayed
Argues that Zacchaeus announces a new resolve following Jesus’ acceptance.
What was reviewed
Luke 19:8 notes 20–21 and notes on 19:9–10, within the full displayed unit. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.
This is an argued narrative interpretation; the Greek conditional form alone does not establish a history of fraud.
- Commentary on Luke 19:1–10
David Lose · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2010-10-31
Argues that the present-tense declaration describes existing practice, noting the crowd’s complaint and lack of an explicit confession.
What was reviewed
Complete commentary, especially Decisions, Decisions. Accessed 2026-09-26.
Homiletical reconstruction; present tense alone does not settle temporal force, and proposed motives remain uncertain.
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, §§1451–1460
Catholic Church · Holy See / Libreria Editrice Vaticana · Official online English text; paragraph identifiers used
Distinguishes Catholic confession practice from a self-earned pardon and affirms resolution to change.
What was reviewed
§§1451–1458 and §1460; confession, contrition, and dependence on Christ in penitential action. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.
§1459 was not used as an inspected locator. This is confessional teaching; no universal practice is inferred from it.
- Commentary on James 5:13–20
A. K. M. Adam · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2009-09-27
Tests the reading of confession as shared truthful care within the congregation.
What was reviewed
Paragraphs connecting mutual trust, confession and prayer with the community’s integrity and James’s closing exhortations. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.
Its reconstruction about the affordability of oil is not used; healing mechanics are outside this guide.
- Commentary on John 20:19–23
Matt Skinner · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2011-06-12
Reads release from sin through Spirit-enabled witness and treats retaining as the effect of failing to witness.
What was reviewed
Complete commentary, particularly Forgiving and Retaining Sins. Accessed 2026-09-26.
The specific account of retaining is debated; the article does not present it as the verse’s only possible meaning.
- Commentary on John, volume 2: John 20:19–23
John Calvin · Christian Classics Ethereal Library · Historical commentary; digital page does not display publication date
Represents a Reformed reading of ministerial forgiveness through gospel proclamation.
What was reviewed
Comments on verses 21–23, especially the opening exposition of verse 23 and the distinction between Christ and his heralds. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.
Historical confessional polemic is not adopted; this record is not evidence for every contemporary Protestant practice.
- Catechism of the Catholic Church, §§1440–1446
Catholic Church · Holy See / Libreria Editrice Vaticana · Official online English text; paragraph identifiers used
Represents Catholic teaching that Christ entrusts sacramental forgiveness and ecclesial reconciliation to apostolic ministry.
What was reviewed
§§1440–1446, with footnote 41 identifying John 20:21–23. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.
Primary evidence for Catholic doctrine, not an independent scholarly consensus or a conclusion shared by all Christians.
- Introducing the Warning Passages in Hebrews: A Contextual Orientation, in Four Views on the Warning Passages in Hebrews
Herbert W. Bateman IV · Kregel Publications · 2007
Locates Hebrews 6 within the call to maturity and perseverance and surveys contrasting accounts of apostasy.
What was reviewed
Publisher excerpt, printed pp. 74–85 (PDF pages 74–85; zero-based indices 73–84), especially pp. 78–82. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.
Only these pages of the editor’s essay were inspected. The four contributors’ full chapters are outside the excerpt and were not read.
- NET Bible: Hebrews 6:6, translator notes
NET Bible translators and editors · Biblical Studies Press, classic NET Bible · Web edition; page does not identify a revision date
Records the causal since and temporal while possibilities for the participles describing rejection.
What was reviewed
Translation and notes 1–3. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.
Grammar alone does not decide the identity of the people, the permanence of apostasy or a doctrine of perseverance.
- Persevering and Falling Away: A Reexamination of Hebrews 6:4–6
R. Bruce Compton · Detroit Baptist Seminary Journal 1 · Spring 1996, pp. 135–167
Argues that spiritual benefits do not by themselves prove regeneration and that 6:9 distinguishes salvation from the preceding description.
What was reviewed
Selected pp. 135–138, 146–147 and 164–167: introduction, experience terminology, the 6:9–12 argument and conclusion. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.
Partial reading; eternal security also shapes the argument. The conclusion is disputed.
- Commentary on Timothy, Titus, Philemon: 2 Timothy 2:22–26
John Calvin · Christian Classics Ethereal Library · Historical commentary; digital page gives no publication date
Treats repentance as God’s transforming work, giving the teacher reason to persist gently rather than abandon an opponent.
What was reviewed
Commentary on 2:22–26; especially the paragraphs on 2:25–26. Accessed 2026-09-26.
Historical interpretation; its sectarian polemic and broader system are not adopted as conclusions of this short unit.
- Sermon 85: On Working out our own Salvation
John Wesley · Christian Classics Ethereal Library · Text of the 1872 edition as identified by the page
Argues that grace both enables and calls for response, and that people can resist grace already given.
What was reviewed
I.1–4, II.1, and III.2–8 on divine action, preceding grace and responsible response. Accessed 2026-09-26 · Read in part.
A historical theological sermon on Philippians 2:12–13; the wider account of sanctification and universal preceding grace requires additional arguments.